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“Maybe,” I conceded. “But it doesn’t change the fact that he’s part of the club. And I have a strict ‘no mixing business with pleasure’ policy.”
Vanessa rolled her eyes. “Yeah, because that’s worked out so well for you so far. When was the last time you even went on a date?”
I opened my mouth to argue, then closed it again. She had me there.
“Look,” Vanessa said, her tone softening. “I’m not saying you need to jump his bones or anything. Just... don’t close yourself off completely, okay? It’s okay to be interested in someone. It’s okay to let yourself feel things.”
I nodded, not trusting myself to speak. Vanessa pulled me into a hug, and I let myself relax into her embrace. Sometimes I forgot how much I needed this – this unconditional support, this gentle push out of my comfort zone.
“Thanks, V,” I mumbled into her shoulder.
She pulled back, grinning. “Anytime. Now, get some sleep. You look like you need it.”
I stuck my tongue out at her, but I could feel exhaustion creeping in. “Yeah, yeah. Go do your pretzel poses or whatever.”
Vanessa laughed as she headed for the door. “It’s called yoga, you heathen. Sweet dreams. Maybe about a certain tall, dark, and handsome finance guy?”
I threw another oven mitt at her retreating form, but a smile was tugging at my lips.
As I settled into my bed, I could feel my defenses crumbling just a little. Maybe Vanessa was right. Maybe it was okay to let myself feel something . Maybe I could let go of the past for once.
CHAPTER FIVE
Fury
I stepped out of the cab, straightening my tie as I took in the gleaming facade of Hartley & Associates. The building towered above me, all glass and steel, a monument to New York’s real estate royalty. I’d done my homework on this place, but seeing it in person was something else entirely.
“Here goes nothing,” I muttered, striding through the revolving doors with as much confidence as I could muster. The lobby was a masterpiece of modern design - all clean lines and subtle luxury.
As I approached the reception desk, a statuesque blonde looked up, her smile practiced and professional. “Welcome to Hartley & Associates. How may I assist you?”
“Fury Gracen, here to see Olivia Hartley.”
Her eyes widened slightly at my name - whether from recognition or surprise, I couldn’t tell. “Of course, Mr. Gracen. Ms. Hartley is expecting you. Please, take the express elevator to the 50th floor.”
I nodded my thanks and made my way to the elevator, my mind racing. Finding the right location for Gracen & McCrae’s expansion into New York was crucial. No pressure, right?
The elevator ride was mercifully short, and as the doors slid open, I came face to face with Olivia Hartley herself.
“Mr. Gracen,” she said, extending a delicate hand. “Welcome to Hartley & Associates.”
I took her hand, noting the firm grip. “Ms. Hartley. Thank you for meeting with me on such short notice.”
She smiled, a flash of white teeth that could probably close deals on its own. “Please, call me Olivia. And it’s my pleasure. We pride ourselves on being responsive to our clients’ needs.”
I immediately noticed the way her tailored suit hugged her curves in utterly delicious ways. Focus, Fury. You’re here on business.
“I hope you don’t mind,” Olivia said, breaking into my thoughts, “but I thought we might take a little field trip. The space I have in mind for Gracen & McCrae is best appreciated in person.”
I raised an eyebrow. “Let’s do it.”
We stepped into the elevator, and on our way down to the garage, Olivia briefed me on the property we were about to view.
She led me to a gleaming black Audi, its lines so sharp you could probably cut yourself on them.
“Nice ride,” I commented as Olivia unlocked the doors.
She flashed me another smile. “One of the perks of the job. Hop in.”
